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South Dakota to Rhode Island Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
- The cost to move from South Dakota to Rhode Island with professional movers will cost between $3,400 and $6,800. See More Costs*These numbers are based on a 2–3 bedroom home and four–15 day delivery time. Your total cost and delivery time will vary based on your home size, the distance, and the time of year.
- To get the most accurate pricing for your specific South Dakota to Rhode Island move, use moveBuddha’s moving cost calculator for a custom quote.
- Our top-recommended mover for relocating from South Dakota to Rhode Island is Safeway Moving. In addition to an excellent reputation, the company has a triple-check verification system to ensure accurate quotes, and it includes 30 days of free storage with all interstate moves.
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Who are the best movers to move from South Dakota to Rhode Island?
After hundreds of hours of research, we find the best mover to help with relocation from South Dakota to Rhode Island is Safeway Moving. This veteran-owned company specializes in affordable long-distance relocations. We appreciate their extensive service options, particularly the offer of 30 days of free storage for all interstate moves. This benefit is especially helpful if your new home isn’t ready, or if you need extra time to settle in.
Get an idea of what mover types we recommend for moving from South Dakota to Rhode Island below and which may work best for you:
- Full-service: This is the safest bet for interstate moving. The company can handle all aspects of the move, from packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. These companies also offer plenty of speciality services for antiques and highly valuable items.
- Moving containers: If you don’t mind handling the packing and loading but don’t want to drive a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. You can save significant money by opting for this more DIY approach.
- Labor-only: If you don’t want to handle a lot of the packing and loading but don’t mind driving a moving truck, this is your ideal mover type. This is another budget-friendly option for interstate moving.
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Best professional movers from South Dakota to Rhode Island
We recommend that you use a professional, long-distance mover for your South Dakota to Rhode Island move. A professional mover is better equipped to handle the complex logistics that can arise during the 1,701 journey. After assessing 3,180 movers, moveBuddha concluded that 2,642 (83%) provide interstate moving. Applying our thorough rating methodology, our experts narrowed the list to the best companies equipped to manage your move from South Dakota to Rhode Island. Our top recommendation is Safeway Moving.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How much does it cost to move from South Dakota to Rhode Island?
It costs between $3,400–$10,800 to move a two-bedroom home with a full-service mover from South Dakota to Rhode Island. Your move’s price can be more or less depending on the size of your home, the total distance between your old home and new home, the time of the year, and any specilaity services you might require. Look at our data below to learn the average costs for other types of moves.
These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 1,701-mile move from SD to
RI using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Jan 29, 2026.
moveBuddha aggregates thousands of vetted price points from movers across the U.S., updating monthly to capture seasonal swings and market movement. Your end price may differ due to move size, optional services, access or parking challenges, fuel fluctuations, and your chosen dates. Always request estimates from several companies to gauge true costs.
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Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
Roadway Moving
Aurora, SD
›
Newport, RI
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 11, 2026
$4,310
Mayzlin Relocation
Lake Preston, SD
›
Portsmouth, RI
2 Bedrooms
Dec 30, 2025
$4,208
Budget Truck Rental
Marion, SD
›
South Kingstown, RI
5+ Bedrooms
Dec 08, 2025
$1,783
Mayflower Transit
Alcester, SD
›
Valley Falls, RI
1 Bedroom (large)
Nov 27, 2025
$6,550
North American Van Lines
Dolton, SD
›
Narragansett, RI
2 Bedrooms
Nov 09, 2025
$5,121
United Van Lines
Howard, SD
›
Newport East, RI
3 Bedrooms
Nov 05, 2025
$8,775
BLVD Moving
Elk Point, SD
›
East Providence, RI
1 Bedroom (small)
Nov 04, 2025
$4,969
Joyce Van Lines
Olivet, SD
›
North Smithfield, RI
Studio apartment
Nov 03, 2025
$3,587
Allied Van Lines
Arlington, SD
›
East Greenwich, RI
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 30, 2025
$11,486
PODS
Tyndall, SD
›
Westerly, RI
5+ Bedrooms
Oct 28, 2025
$4,063
FAQ
How much does it cost to move from South Dakota to Rhode Island?
Moving from South Dakota to Rhode Island can cost anywhere from $1,360–$10,988, but most people pay around $3,374–$6,787 Here are average cost ranges by home size and service type:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $1,360 – $5,262 | $981 – $2,419 | $980 – $1,884 |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $3,374 – $8,148 | $1,713 – $3,756 | $1,071 – $2,307 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $6,577 – $10,751 | $2,339 – $4,791 | $1,337 – $2,715 |
These are approximate estimates for a 1,701-mile move from SD to RI using moveBuddha pricing data as of Jan 29, 2026.
Final costs can vary based on move size, add-on services, parking/access challenges, fuel rates, and scheduling.
How much does it cost to hire movers (a moving company) for this route?
It typically costs around $3,374 – $8,148 to hire a moving company to move you from South Dakota to Rhode Island. Here is what it might cost you based on your home’s size:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $1,360 – $5,262
- 2–3 bedrooms: $3,374 – $8,148
- 4+ bedrooms: $6,577 – $10,751
How much do moving containers cost from South Dakota to Rhode Island?
Using a moving container from South Dakota to Rhode Island costs, on average, $1,713 – $3,756. Learn what it might cost you to use a moving container here:
- Small move: $981 – $2,419
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,713 – $3,756
- 4+ bedrooms: $2,339 – $4,791
Learn more about PODS cost here.
How much does a rental truck cost for this move?
Using a rental moving truck to move from South Dakota to Rhode Island will costs you between $1,071 – $2,307, but your price might differ as follows below:
- Studio / 1 bedroom: $980 – $1,884
- 2–3 bedrooms: $1,071 – $2,307
- 4+ bedrooms: $1,337 – $2,715
These cost ranges already include estimated fuel costs.
Which option is usually the cheapest?
A rental truck is generally the cheapest option to move from South Dakota to Rhode Island, but you’ll handle the driving and labor yourself. Consider your needs and wants to determine what type of moving service is worth it for you.
How do I get the most accurate price for my exact move?
To get the most accurate moving quote, give movers or marketplaces detailed info upfront: exact pickup and drop-off addresses, move date and time window, home layout (stairs, elevators, walk distance), and an inventory list—or better yet, a video walkthrough. Don’t forget to flag bulky or special items.
Ask for an in-home or video survey and request a binding or “not-to-exceed” estimate with a full itemized breakdown: labor hours, travel time, packing materials, and any fees (fuel, stairs, long-carry, insurance/valuation, etc.).
Then compare at least three quotes that match in scope. Confirm what’s excluded—like tips, packing, shuttles, storage, or cancellation fees—and go with the most transparent option, not just the cheapest.
What “extra costs” should I plan for after moving from SD to RI?
Beyond your moving bill, it’s smart to budget for the “extra costs” that can change once you arrive in Rhode Island — especially everyday expenses like housing and taxes. For example, average rent shifts from $878 in South Dakota to $1,195 in Rhode Island, and average home values go from $306,944 to $467,485.
You’ll also want to factor in differences in the cost of living index (100 vs. 100), unemployment (1.9% vs. 4.6%), and taxes — including average sales tax (6.4% vs. 7.0%) and state income tax (0.0% vs. 5.99%). Taking a quick look at these side-by-side numbers can help you avoid surprises and plan a more accurate post-move monthly budget. Learn more with the table below.
| South Dakota | Rhode Island | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent | $878 | $1,195 |
| Average home cost | $306,944 | $467,485 |
| Average income (per capita) | $69,457 | $81,370 |
| Cost of living index | 100 | 100 |
| Unemployment rate | 1.9% | 4.6% |
| Average sales tax | 6.4% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 0.0% | 5.99% |
Will rent be more expensive in Rhode Island?
Rent is about 36% higher in Rhode Island than in South Dakota.
Avg rent: $878 vs. $1,195
How do home prices compare (if I’m buying after the move)?
Home prices are about 52% higher in Rhode Island than in South Dakota.
Avg home value: $306,944 vs. $467,485
Will my earning power likely change after moving?
Average income is about 17% higher in Rhode Island than in South Dakota.
Avg income (per capita): $69,457 vs. $81,370
Is the overall cost of living higher in Rhode Island?
The cost of living is about the same in South Dakota and Rhode Island.
Cost of living index: 100 vs. 100
Will sales tax increase my everyday spending?
Sales tax is about 9% higher in Rhode Island than in South Dakota.
Avg sales tax: 6.4% vs. 7.0%
Will state income tax change my take-home pay?
Rhode Island has a state income tax, while South Dakota does not — plan for higher paycheck deductions.
State income tax: 0.0% vs. 5.99%
How is daily life different in Rhode Island compared to South Dakota?
Relocating is about more than a job or a place to live — it’s how your day-to-day life will feel.
| Rhode Island | South Dakota | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 1,093,734 | 919,318 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 56-44 | Republican 63-37 |
| Summer high | 82ºF | 85ºF |
| Winter low | 19ºF | 7ºF |
| Annual rain | 50″ | 23″ |
| Annual snow | 35″ | 39″ |
| Crime index | 14.58 | 21.14 |
Will Rhode Island feel more crowded than South Dakota?
Rhode Island is about 19% more populous than South Dakota — which can mean more infrastructure and amenities.
Will the political culture feel different?
In the last presidential election, Rhode Island voted Democratic while South Dakota voted Republican.
How different is the weather (summer and winter)?
Summer: Highs are very similar (82°F vs. 85°F).
Winter: Rhode Island is milder on average (19°F vs. 7°F).
Will it be wetter or snowier in Rhode Island?
Rain: Rhode Island gets more rain (50″ vs. 23″).
Snow: Snowfall is similar (35 inches vs. 39 inches).
Is Rhode Island safer than South Dakota?
Rhode Island has a lower crime index than South Dakota (14.58 vs. 21.14), which can mean more peace of mind overall.
What are some things to do in Rhode Island?
Museums in Rhode Island
- The Breakers
- Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art
- Providence Children’s Museum
- John Brown House Museum
- Old Slater Mill
Parks in Rhode Island
- Water Place Park
- Roger Williams Park
- Goddard State Park
- India Point Park
- Fort Adams State Park
Sports teams in Rhode Island
- Providence Bruins (AHL)
- Brown Bears (NCAA)
Universities in Rhode Island
- Brown University
- University of Rhode Island
- Rhode Island School of Design
- Rhode Island College
- Johnson and Wales University
source: AttractionsofAmerica
What other things should I plan for besides the move itself?
Other things to consider for your South Dakota to Rhode Island move
- HOA rules: Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch and you don’t run into any unexpected issues.
- Elevator reservation: Reserve your building’s elevator in advance and review any moving day guidelines beforehand.
- Parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles. Find out about your new local rules ahead of time.
- State licensing: In Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (RIPUC) is responsible for providing regulation and oversight of the moving and storage industry. The state maintains a database of licensed movers, though some information may not be current. To verify that the movers you’re considering are licensed, insured, and authorized to provide relocation services without the state, check the above link and call (401) 780-9700. Verify that your moving company is properly licensed before booking their services.
- State regulator: Easily verify a Rhode Island moving license and its current status on the official state regulator’s website, here.
- Moving permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Rhode Island, but it’s a good idea to review local parking rules ahead of your move.
- Change of address: Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Get started here.
- Mover’s insurance: Interstate moving companies are required under federal law to provide basic insurance (“released value protection”) free of charge. In Rhode Island, movers often provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or explore third-party insurance options. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and reading reviews before choosing an insurance plan for your move.
- Moving checklist: Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist to make sure you haven’t missed a thing.
Do I need to follow HOA or building rules on moving day?
Take a moment to review your neighborhood or community guidelines before moving day to ensure everything goes off without a hitch.
Should I reserve an elevator for moving day?
Reserve your building’s elevator in advance.
Do I need a parking permit for a moving truck in Rhode Island?
Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles.
How can I confirm a mover is properly licensed in Rhode Island?
In Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (RIPUC) is responsible for providing regulation and oversight of the moving and storage industry. The state maintains a database of licensed movers, though some information may not be current. To verify that the movers you’re considering are licensed, insured, and authorized to provide relocation services without the state, check the above link and call (401) 780-9700.
You can verify licensing on the state regulator’s official site: check a Rhode Island moving license here.
Do I need a moving permit in Rhode Island?
You won’t need a moving permit in Rhode Island.
What should I do about mail forwarding, insurance, and potential discounts?
Submit your USPS change of address form at least a week before your move. Get started here.
Interstate movers must provide basic insurance at no extra cost. In Rhode Island, movers often provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, offering coverage at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, discuss Full Value Protection with the moving company or explore third-party insurance options. Prioritize understanding coverage limits, potential extra costs, and reading reviews before choosing an insurance plan for your move.
Discount availability varies by mover.
Nothing beats peace of mind. Use our moving checklist.
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